Rancid

/ˈræn.sɪd/

Meaning & Definition

adjective

having a strong, unpleasant smell or taste as a result of being old and no longer fresh, especially in relation to fats or oils.

The butter had turned rancid and was no longer fit for consumption.

characterized by extremely unpleasant or offensive attitudes or behaviors.

His rancid remarks about his coworkers created a toxic atmosphere in the office.

From Latin 'rancidus', meaning 'to stink, to be rotten'.

rancid breath

Bad smell coming from the mouth, typically due to poor hygiene or certain foods.

rancid oil

Cooking oil that has spoiled, often characterized by a bad smell.

rancid reputation

A reputation that is damaged or disliked, often due to unethical behavior.

fermented

Undergoing a biochemical process, often yielding strong flavors or smells.

decomposed

Having broken down, typically referring to organic matter that has rotted.

Outdated or unwanted.

That style is so rancid; no one wears that anymore.

Used to describe a negative situation or experience.

My last date was rancid; it was a total disaster.